Great Grads - Praise Augustus

BS, Biology

From almost her first day at CCNY, Praise Augustus has been giving back to the College. She volunteers with the student emergency medical response team, mentors freshmen and sophomores through the City College Academy for Professional Preparation (CCAPP) and has served in student government.

"From the multitude of experiences I have had volunteering, one thing I am constantly reminded of is that it is better to give than to receive," said Praise, who will graduate with a BS in biology, magna cum laude, and enter SUNY Downstate Medical School next fall. "No amount of money could ever repay the joy that comes from this kind of service."
Praise's interest in biology started in high school science class, when she was learning about human body. "The human body is so complex, yet it runs on a simple principle. To be able to decode the mystery of the body is very exciting," the aspiring surgeon added.

She described her City College experience as challenging, yet opportunistic. "The City College of New York has taught me leadership skills and to take the initiative," she said. "It is one of the ways that I can express my gratitude to City College and work for its betterment, and I think that giving back to my school through my time and service is a priceless way of saying 'Thank You!'"
Her volunteer efforts aren't limited to campus, however. In 2008 – 2009, she went to Haiti as a volunteer with a medical team, sponsored by Voices for Haiti, and served as a mediator between the doctors and patients. After she becomes a physician, she plans to continue to volunteer on medical issues and help people around the world get care.

"The City College of New York has taught me leadership skills and to take the initiative...I think that giving back to my school through my time and service is a priceless way of saying 'Thank You!'"
- Praise Augustus